Anyone who has tried out kayaking will often list Intex as a top brand for newbies. Intex has been around for a while to make some of the best kayaks users need for various kayaking scenarios.
The Intex Challenger K2 Kayak is one of the brand’s best-selling kayaks. It is why I had to look at it in detail to understand how it sells so well. I found out some interesting features and benefits of owning this type of inflatable kayak.
If it is something maybe you were thinking about getting, keep reading this review to understand more about it.
Technical Specification
Brand: Intex
Style: Kayaks
Construction: Rubber
Size: 30” x 15” x 138”
Weight: 33.5 pounds
Seasons: Spring-Summer
Features: Foldable, Inflatable
Usage: Water Sports
Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
Complete Features Description of Intex Challenger K2 Kayak
The Construction
The Intex challenger K2 kayak has a rugged construction thanks to the use of a 30-gauge vinyl plastic material. This type of material is durable than other common alternatives since it can withstand continuous abuse while kayaking.
Let us say you are kayaking in a place full of rocks. Even if the kayak is inflatable, it will still withstand knocks or any other minor scrapes.
It is still advisable to avoid sharp objects even if I say it is a durable kayak.
The material Intex used to make the kayak is still UV resistant. Since you might have to keep the kayak outdoors sometimes, it is good to know it has the best protection from the sun.
The Seats
This is a two-person kayak meaning the Intex challenger K2 kayak will have two seats.
The seats will always determine the overall comfort for the user. The last thing you need is an uncomfortable ride when paddling for hours sometimes.
Luckily, the seats in this kayak are inflatable and adjustable. This means you can now adjust the backrest to a point you feel is comfortable for you.
As much as it is a two-person kayak, you can still choose to install the second seat or not. As such, you can always adjust it to suit the number of people using the kayak at any given time.
Air Chambers
It seems like a new trend where the manufacturers are now using several air chambers rather than one for inflatable kayaks. You would find inflatable kayaks having one air chamber in the past, which would be risky in case it gets punctured.
This model comes with two air chambers. You are now assured of the best safety and reliability. Also, the setup will be simple and fast.
Having that extra guarantee that your kayak is safe will drive more people to consider getting it.
Stability
Like any other kayak, overall stability is vital to the paddler. Even for experienced paddlers, the last thing they want is a kayak that can easily topple over.
The Intex Challenger K2 Kayak comes with an inflatable I-beam floor. This unique floor system adds more rigidity to the kayak and generally improves its durability and stability too.
This type of stability is what makes this particular kayak suitable for mild rivers and lakes.
Setting Up
Inflating is part of setting up this Intex Challenger K2 Kayak. Some would be wondering how easy or hard it is to get it up and running.
Well, this one features the Boston valves. Such valves are large and rugged. They make it easier for inflating and deflating of the kayak.
The best part is that the kayak comes with a hand pump as part of the accessories. You would now have an easy time working on the kayak rather than having to buy a separate pump for inflating it.
The Design
The design is a crucial factor that largely determines where to use this type of kayak.
The first thing paddlers will notice is the high visibility colors. The same applies to graphics. One, such colors are seen as fun and sporty. It might be why some young guys love playing in such kayaks. Two, the high visibility colors are for safety while kayaking. Other paddlers and rescuers can easily come to your aid.
The design also features a comfortable cockpit. Let us say you paddle for a couple of hours; then you would need such a ride to be comfortable and enjoyable. Most people feel the cockpit is large enough.
Having a removable skeg as part of the design provides you with more stability. However, it can still be removed when paddling in shallow waters that do not need the aid of a skeg. As a result, you now have a kayak for different water depths.
Its low-profile design gives it a nice performance for mild rivers and lakes. You might use it in some fast rivers, but it is not advisable. Always use the right kayak for the water condition.
There are still some cargo nets on the kayak. These nets help with holding your items while kayaking. It might not be the storage you get with some rigid-type kayaks, but it is still good enough.
What More is Included in the Package?
Other than the Intex Challenger K2 kayak, you will also get some accessories accompanying it. Such include;
- A repair patch kit. Let us say you end up with punctures or leaks; you would have a repair kit to help you mend the puncture with ease.
- A high output pump. This pump is what you use to inflate the kayak and get it ready for use. It is a high output pump, so it should be easy to get the kayak ready for use in no time.
- A carrying case. Once you are done with kayaking, you simply deflate the kayak and store it in the durable carrying case.
- Two aluminum paddles. These two paddles are made of aluminum, which makes them lightweight for better portability and use.
Intex Challenger K2 Kayak Pros
- The kayak is easy to store and still portable
- The setup process is fast and easy
- It can hold one or two paddlers
- It has multiple accessories to make it functional out of the carrying case
- The construction is durable
- The model has a high output pump for quick inflation of the kayak
Intex Challenger K2 Kayak Cons
- Overall cargo storage is small
- It lacks a drain hole
How to Set up the Intex Challenger K2 Kayak
If you are new to using the kayak, do not worry, as the manufacturer gives you important information to follow. In the carrying case, you will also find the product manual.
The manual is clearly written so that the setup process can be fast and straightforward.
The kayak has two numbered valves. The numbers tell you the order of inflating each of the air chambers. Next to the valves, you will find measuring lines. You need to check against these lines for proper inflation of the kayak.
It is worth mentioning that you should never overinflate or underinflate the kayak. Luckily, it will take 10 minutes only to inflate the kayak as it comes with a high output pump.
You can still check out some YouTube videos online to see how other people set up their Intex Challenger K2 kayak.
Make sure to check out for leaks before heading out to kayak. This will help avoid some disappointments later while you are already in the water.
FAQS
How hard is it to set up the Intex Challenger K2 kayak?
It is not hard. The model has a high output pump and better valves that make inflation a breeze, even for newbies.
What is the weight capacity of the Intex Challenger K2 kayak?
The K2 kayak has a weight capacity of 400 pounds. That is enough for two people plus some gear for kayaking.
Where best can you use the Intex Challenger K2 kayak?
Due to its design and other features, the kayak is best suited for mild rivers and lakes. If you have to kayak in whitewater, consider a kayak suited for that specific environment.
Conclusion
The design, construction material, accessories, and more features make this a top choice for anyone looking for an inflatable kayak. There is no doubt you would enjoy using this type of kayak for years to come if you handle it as recommended.
Since it is also a two-person kayak, it is an excellent choice for those who want to kayak with their friends or partners. So, if it appeals to you, go ahead and get it for yourself today.